Michael A. Renahan

Michael A. Renahan, 69 of Chilmark formerly of Mattapoisett, passed away Friday September 28, 2012 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Michael was born February 10, 1943 to Thomas A. Renahan of Mattapoisett and Pauline [Perry] Renahan of Mattapoisett.

He is predeceased by his wife Joan Faith [Gagnon] Renahan and his stepson Michael W. Rossi.

Michael was a graduate of Mount Saint Charles Academy in Rhode Island. Shortly after graduating he joined Mattapoisett Police Department and then went on to work with the Massachusetts Department of Natural Resources for the Marine Division..

Michael, his wife Joan and stepchildren Michael Rossi formerly of Edgartown, William Rossi of Chilmark, Patricia Rossi of Chilmark, David Rossi of Edgartown and Daniel Rossi of West Tisbury all moved to the Vineyard in 1973.

Shortly after moving to the Vineyard he changed careers and became a Contractor. He truly loved everything the Island had to offer, such as hunting and fishing and enjoyed teaching his grandchildren all that he knew. He was the Chilmark Dog Officer for 35 years and served on the Board of Health, which he truly enjoyed.

His brother Thomas Renahan of Maryland and his stepchildren William, Patricia, David and Daniel along with 9 grandchildren and 2 great children survive Michael.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 2, from 6:00 – 8:00pm in the Chapman Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs. His funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 3, 11:00 am in St. Augustine’s Church, Franklin St., Vineyard Haven followed by burial in The Abel’s Hill Cemetery, Chilmark. A celebration of his life to follow after the burial at the Chilmark Community Center.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Menemsha Fisheries Development Fund, P.O. Box 96, Menemsha, MA 02553.